He will be replaced by Ch Supt Shaun Donnellan, currently in charge at Wigan, who will now oversee both Bolton and Wigan.

Police say the changes across the force will save up to £250,000.

Ch Supt Hull, who took on the role nearly three years ago, will keep the same rank and move to GMP’s headquarters in Newton Heath, Manchester, at the start of next month to work on a project to see how policing can be reshaped.

He said: “I am genuinely sorry and upset to be going. I really have a passion for the role.

"I have loved every minute of being in Bolton. Out of all of the roles I have had, this is the one I would want to come back to. I like the people and the place.

“I have given Ch Supt Donnellan a briefing and we have a series of meetings arranged for him to pick up the reins. He is very lucky.

“I am most proud of the work of the men and women of Bolton’s division. They are second to none. As a group of people they are trying their best to serve the community.”